What should I do if a rat is not feeding its pups? - briefly
Observe the dam for signs of illness, stress, or lack of milk and maintain a warm, quiet nest. If she continues to neglect the litter, begin hand‑feeding with appropriate rodent formula and consult a veterinarian.
What should I do if a rat is not feeding its pups? - in detail
If a mother rat stops providing nourishment to her litter, immediate assessment and intervention are required.
First, evaluate the dam’s condition. Look for signs of illness, injury, or stress: lethargy, weight loss, abnormal discharge, or visible wounds. A compromised mother often cannot produce sufficient milk. If any health concerns are evident, contact a qualified exotic‑animal veterinarian without delay.
Second, examine the nest environment. Ensure temperature remains within the optimal range of 28‑30 °C (82‑86 °F); insufficient warmth can reduce milk production and discourage nursing. Verify that bedding is clean, dry, and free of drafts. Remove any potential sources of disturbance, such as loud noises or frequent handling.
Third, confirm that the pups are alive and gaining weight. Weigh each pup daily using a precise scale; a gain of 1–2 g per day indicates adequate nutrition. If weight stagnates or declines, supplemental feeding becomes necessary.
Fourth, provide artificial feeding only when the dam cannot resume nursing. Use a commercial rodent milk replacer formulated for pups, warmed to body temperature (≈37 °C). Feed with a small‑volume syringe (0.5–1 ml per feeding) according to the following schedule:
- Begin with 0.5 ml every 2 hours for the first 24 hours.
- Increase to 1 ml per feeding if pups tolerate the volume, maintaining the 2‑hour interval.
- Gradually extend intervals to 3‑4 hours by day 4, monitoring weight gain.
During supplemental feeding, keep the pups warm by placing them on a heating pad set to low, covered with a blanket to prevent burns. Rotate pups to ensure equal access to the bottle.
Fifth, support the dam’s lactation. Offer a high‑calorie diet rich in protein and fat: commercial rat chow supplemented with boiled egg, mealworms, or a small amount of low‑fat cheese. Provide fresh water at all times. Limit stressors and allow the mother uninterrupted time with her litter.
Finally, maintain meticulous records of weight, feeding volumes, and observations. If pups fail to thrive despite supplementation, or if the dam shows no improvement within 24‑48 hours, seek veterinary intervention promptly to prevent mortality.